Formula 1: Rwanda Grand Prix Officially Announced—Here Are the Details

Formula 1 is returning to Africa after more than 30 years—it’s official. Rwanda will host the series for ten years under the name African Grand Prix: the goal is to hold the race starting at the beginning of the next decade, once the circuit is ready. The last time the premier class of motorsports raced on African soil was in 1993 at Kyalami, in South Africa.

The track will be built in Bugesera, 40 kilometers from the capital, Kigali: it will take advantage of the natural terrain and slopes of the landscape. “The return of the Formula 1 World Championship to Africa is a historic moment for our sport and an important step in the continued global growth of motorsport. Rwanda has demonstrated a strong commitment to organizing a world-class event, and the FIA will work alongside FOM and our partners as this new circuit is built to the highest international standards. This agreement is also aimed at creating a lasting legacy, inspiring new generations, nurturing talent, and creating new opportunities for motorsport in Africa and beyond,” said FIA President Ben Sulayem.

F1 CEO Stefano Domenicali is enthusiastic: “With Rwanda joining the calendar starting next decade, our sport will race on every inhabited continent, bringing the world championship closer than ever to fans around the globe.”

Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda, expressed his satisfaction: “This 10-year partnership is also an investment in Rwanda’s future. The circuit in Bugesera, near the new international airport, will bring jobs, skills, tourism, and new business to our country for decades to come, because our goal has never been a single race weekend, but rather lasting benefits for our people.”